{"id":2800,"date":"2024-11-06T08:28:57","date_gmt":"2024-11-06T08:28:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.scu.edu\/internationalbusiness\/?p=2800"},"modified":"2024-11-06T08:28:57","modified_gmt":"2024-11-06T08:28:57","slug":"chiapas-mexico-study-abroad","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.scu.edu\/internationalbusiness\/2024\/11\/06\/chiapas-mexico-study-abroad\/","title":{"rendered":"Chiapas, Mexico, Study Abroad"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Paulina Salinas<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Traveling is full of surprises and adventures, and I never anticipated how profoundly an immersion program in Chiapas, Mexico, would impact my life. This experience has shaped me into a socially-conscious woman, sparking my curiosity to explore new perspectives, cultures, ways of life, and cuisines. Located in southern Mexico on the border with Guatemala, Chiapas is celebrated for its vibrant indigenous cultures. Communities like the Tzotzil and Tzeltal Maya enrich the region\u2019s cultural fabric through their languages, traditional clothing, and handicrafts, particularly in cities like San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas. Chiapas also boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, including the towering Sumidero Canyon, the vividly colored lakes of Montebello, and the turquoise waters of Agua Azul and El Chifl\u00f3n, all of which attract nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adding to Chiapas’ allure are ancient Maya archaeological sites like Palenque, known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings, as well as Bonampak and Yaxchil\u00e1n, which are famous for their historic murals and temples. Chiapas also stands out for its traditional cuisine, with dishes like tamales, cochito (spiced pork), and the corn-and-cacao drink pozol<\/em>, which reflect the state\u2019s indigenous culinary heritage. Socially and politically, Chiapas gained international attention through the Zapatista movement, which advocates for indigenous rights and social justice, highlighting the region\u2019s historical and ongoing struggles for autonomy and equity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This immersion not only deepened my cultural understanding but also strengthened my commitment to engaged listening and solidarity with others. In San Crist\u00f3bal de las Casas, I observed signs of gentrification that contrasted with my intention to experience Chiapas authentically. My love for Mexican artisan crafts initially left me feeling overwhelmed, but I soon reminded myself of the purpose of the trip: to engage deeply, live simply, and embody the Jesuit value of being “a person for and with others.” Embracing simplicity, I centered my experience on active listening\u2014a skill that proved invaluable. Through listening, I witnessed Chiapas’ resilience, determination, and cultural richness, which revealed diverse ways in which God’s presence could be felt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a Finance major, I was particularly fascinated by Yomol A\u2019tel, a cooperative based in Chil\u00f3n, Chiapas. Yomol A\u2019tel, which means “working together” in Tzeltal, is a unique social enterprise network dedicated to fostering economic autonomy, sustainable development, and social justice among indigenous Tzeltal Maya communities. By creating opportunities for local families to engage in the production of coffee, honey, and handcrafted goods, Yomol A\u2019tel empowers communities to thrive while preserving their cultural heritage and values.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yomol A’tel’s Core Initiatives:<\/p>\n\n\n\n